Morning Jolt: Ex-Cowboys coach headed to Houston?

According to a report, former Dallas Cowboys head coach Wade Phillips could wind up in Houston as defensive coordinator. The Texans are expected to shake up their coaching staff in the wake of a disappointing season. Frank Bush Sr. is the current coordinator of a defense that ranks 29th in yards allowed with 380.6 and 30th in points allowed at 27.3. Phillips was fired after eight games this season and is under contract to the Cowboys through 2011. If Phillips were to get the job with Houston, that would relieve some of Cowboys' owner-general manage Jerry Jones' financial obligation to him. (The Dallas Morning News)Comment

Based on Nolan Ryan's comments earlier in the week, it would come as little surprise if he were put off by the expectations of Adrian Beltre. The Angels, more than ever, look like the front-runners to sign [Beltre]. The A's, who made Beltre multiple offers, pulled out of the talks this week to pursue other players, according to major-league sources. ... Beltre's agent, Scott Boras, is seeking at least a five-year, $85 million contract, according to rival executives. To make room for Beltre, the Rangers would need to trade third baseman Michael Young or move him to designated hitter, neither of which is likely. Thus, the path for the Angels seems relatively clear. (FOX Sports)Comment

The Wizards have already made one big roster play this season, and they may not be done dealing. According to two Western Conference executives, the Wizards are gauging interest in Andray Blatche to determine if trading the skilled 6-foot-11 forward is best for the organization moving forward. Blatche leads the Wizards in scoring (16.8 points) and is second in rebounding (7.9). The trade deadline is Feb. 24. Blatche was involved in an altercation last week with teammate JaVale McGee outside of an area club. Blatche and McGee both received one-game suspensions and later apologized for the incident. (The Washington Post)Comment